Limited motion is an early symptom of a frozen shoulder (also known as
Adhesive Capsulitis), which is a general term denoting all causes of motion
loss in the shoulder. It affects more women than men, with onset occurring
usually between ages 40 and 65. Approximately 10% to 20% of diabetics
may be at risk of developing the condition, as well as those who have
suffered trauma or overuse injuries. Patients with hyperthyroidism, cardiovascular
disease, clinical depression or Parkinson’s disease may also be
predisposed to developing a frozen shoulder.
Causes of Frozen Shoulder
The causes of frozen shoulder are unknown, although it most likely involves
an underlying inflammatory process. The capsule surrounding the shoulder
joint thickens and contracts, leaving less space for the upper arm bone
(humerus) to move. Frozen shoulder can also develop after a prolonged
immobilization because of trauma or surgery to the joint. Usually only
one shoulder is affected, although in about one-third of cases, motion
may be limited in both arms.
Frozen Shoulder Symptoms
If you’re having trouble lifting your arm above your head, reaching
across your body or behind your back, you may have a problem with the
range of motion in your shoulder. Frozen shoulder develops slowly, and
in three stages:
Stage One: Pain increases with movement and is often worse at night. There is a
progressive loss of motion with increasing pain. This stage lasts approximately
2 to 9 months.
Stage Two: Pain begins to diminish, and moving the arm is more comfortable. However,
the range of motion is now much more limited, as much as 50 percent less
than in the other arm. This stage may last 4 to 12 months.
Stage Three: The condition begins to resolve. Most patients experience a gradual restoration
of motion over the next 12 to 42 months; surgery may be required to restore
motion for some patients.
Frozen Shoulder Treatments
Treatment is aimed at relieving the discomfort and restoring motion and
function to the shoulder. Nonoperative treatments include muscle relaxers
and medications (such as aspirin or ibuprofen) to reduce the inflammation
and relieve the pain; heat or ice therapies; corticosteroid injections;
and a program of physical therapy, often combined with home exercises
and other therapies, to stretch and help restore motion and function.
Surgery is an option, but only if there is no improvement after several
months. Arthroscopic surgery can successfully release and repair the shoulder,
but it must be mobile.
*Please note that all physicians are listed in random order and search results are refreshed every hour to comply with Stark Law.
Related Testimonials
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"How efficient and kind they all are."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Petrie Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie and his team have been fantastic. Taking time, answering questions, following up."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Everyone was very concerned about my comfort and were very professional."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"The team was very thorough, knowledgeable and willing to answer questions."Provider: David S Gazzaniga MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie and his team were all extremely nice and filled me with confidence. They explained everything to me very clearly and did an amazing job with the surgery. I am excited about the results."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Dr. Petrie's care and attitude was outstanding. He called me at home hours after the surgery to check up on me. The staff was very accessible and always helpful. I felt supported through the whole experience."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"I just want to say thanks for every thing. God bless you Dr. Russell Petrie and all your team thank you very much."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"Informative - answered all questions. Great bedside manner. Inspired confidence, but did not encourage unreasonable expectations. I'm actually recovering better than anticipated."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"He took the time to explain the procedure pre- and post-surgery, expectations and what the healing process will involve. Even appreciated the surgery photos! The staff is awesome! Very responsive and professional."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Petrie Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"They covered all that would take place. Made sure I was ready. Then did a thorough job of assuring my operation was successful."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"It was obvious that the team kept my best interests in the forefront."Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Petrie Shoulder Scope With Reconstruction"They were very helpful and thorough in providing the information I needed, but did not make me scared about surgery - very reassuring"Provider: Russell S Petrie MD
Patient Reviews are anonymous and provided through GetWell, a HIPAA compliant patient engagement tool.
Orthopedic SurgeryView Profile
